Seclusion is an intervention used as a safety measure to manage patients who are violent, show disturbed behaviour and who pose a risk of harm to others (Department of Health 2015). However, it is perceived as a contentious practice and, with the move towards treating people with mental health issues in the least restrictive environment, it has received much criticism. Consequently, there has been considerable debate about its therapeutic value and a call for it to be phased out. This article outlines the purpose of seclusion, and examines evidence on its use in adult mental health settings and its effect on nurses and patients, with emphasis on the interpersonal nature of nursing care during this intervention.